Val, we are not perfect and I do not think anyone ever really knows the right things to do during a time of losing a loved one, but if you felt you were "ruining" this post you had the option to DELETE your post/reply which I WISH YOU WOULD, just go to "edit". Otherwise I am sorry to say this but I kind of feel that was your intention, by you having that ability to recognize the possiblity in the manner your started your reply.. This post in memory of my dad was just that, not to bring anyone down and sad.
To have someone part of your life for 46 years and loved them I personally feel a public memorial is due that is all, and I felt it being a year since his death I wanted to express this, not looking for any great attention or sympathy, just a time for dad.
So again if you felt you ruined this post and obviously you did or you wouldn't have stated your first sentence with that statement, you can still DELETE it if you wish, maybe it would be a good idea to start one of your own about your feelings, it just may be a good idea to anyway, to help you get away from something that caused you sadness while keeping this original post more of a memorial post to honour my dad as it was intended.
Sorry, this was a sensitive moment and was a memorial meant for Edward J. Ohland, my dad.
I'd like to suggest if you wish to do a memorial for your dad, please do it as a seperate post from mine, it may help you keep yours more personal while at the same time construct from your heart of things you want to say about your dad, I do not mean any malice, just respect for my dad and his time of death. Hope you are able to understand this.

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON